World Singles Day: Here’s all you need to know

In 2020, you were single. In 2021, you were still single. You remained single in 2022 and 2023. Now it’s 2024, and here you are—still single. What a great feat! From the president of the Association of Single People, Hero Daniels, here’s wishing you a happy World Singles Day!

Maybe you were even in a relationship earlier this year or this month, but right now there’s no “boo” or “bae.” Don’t worry—you are loved! You might be curious about what this celebration is all about. Not to worry, here’s everything you need to know about World Singles Day.

What the Day is all about 

Every year, World Singles Day is celebrated on November 11. Originally known as “Single’s Day” or Double Eleven (due to its date, 11/11), this holiday began in China in the 1990s as a way for single people to celebrate their individuality. Over the years, Singles Day has gained global recognition, becoming one of the largest shopping and cultural events in the world.

How Singles Day Began

Singles Day started at Nanjing University in China as a way for young people to embrace single life. The four “ones” in the date (11/11) symbolized “bare branches” or single people without a romantic partner. This day encouraged singles to celebrate being unattached, with activities like group gatherings, social events, and self-pampering.

In 2009, the e-commerce giant Alibaba saw an opportunity to commercialise the holiday, transforming it into an online shopping extravaganza similar to Black Friday. The concept took off, and Singles Day became a phenomenon, with millions of people making purchases online.

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How Singles Day is Celebrated

1. Self-Care and Self-Love

Singles Day promotes self-love, and many people see it as a day to focus on personal well-being. From taking a day off to enjoy a spa session or binge-watching a favorite series, people celebrate by indulging in activities they love.

2. Shopping Deals and Discounts 

Thanks to companies like Alibaba, the event has become a massive online shopping event, with retailers offering some of the best discounts of the year. This has made November 11 a highly anticipated day for shoppers, who look forward to incredible deals on everything from electronics to clothing.

3. Celebrating Friendships

Singles Day also encourages the celebration of friendships, with singles getting together to share meals, play games, or even organize social gatherings to meet new people.

Singles Day Around the World

Since its origins in China, Singles Day has spread globally. Many countries, especially across Asia, now recognize the event, and Western retailers have also begun offering discounts on November 11 to attract shoppers. As more people adopt it, the holiday has evolved to represent self-love and personal celebration, regardless of relationship status.

In a world that often emphasizes romantic relationships, Singles Day offers a refreshing alternative, highlighting the importance of independence, individuality, and self-worth. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, November 11 is a great reminder to take time for yourself and appreciate the journey you’re on.

So, on this World Singles Day, embrace who you are, take time to do something you love, and, if you’re in the mood, take advantage of some great deals too!